It’s coming through a hole in the air
From those nights in Tiananmen Square
It’s coming from the feel
That this ain’t exactly real
Or it’s real, but it ain’t exactly there
From the wars against disorder
From the sirens night and day
From the fires of the homeless
From the ashes of the gay:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.
It’s coming through a crack in the wall
On a visionary flood of alcohol
From the staggering account
Of the Sermon on the Mount
Which I don’t pretend to understand at all
It’s coming from the silence
On the dock of the bay
From the brave, the bold, the battered
Heart of Chevrolet:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.
It’s coming from the sorrow in the street
The holy places where the races meet
From the homicidal bitchin’
That goes down in every kitchen
To determine who will serve and who will eat
From the wells of disappointment
Where the women kneel to pray
For the grace of God in the desert here
And the desert far away:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.
Sail on, sail on
O mighty Ship of State!
To the Shores of Need
Past the Reefs of Greed
Through the Squalls of Hate
Sail on, sail on, sail on, sail on
It’s coming to America first
The cradle of the best and of the worst
It’s here they got the range
And the machinery for change
And it’s here they got the spiritual thirst
It’s here the family’s broken
And it’s here the lonely say
That the heart has got to open
In a fundamental way:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.
It’s coming from the women and the men
O baby, we’ll be making love again
We’ll be going down so deep
The river’s going to weep
And the mountain’s going to shout Amen!
It’s coming like the tidal flood
Beneath the lunar sway
Imperial, mysterious
In amorous array:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.
Sail on, sail on…
I’m sentimental, if you know what I mean
I love the country but I can’t stand the scene
And I’m neither left or right
I’m just staying home tonight
Getting lost in that hopeless little screen
But I’m stubborn as those garbage bags
That Time cannot decay
I’m junk but I’m still holding up
This little wild bouquet:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A
Exploring the Anthemic Vision of “Democracy”
Bob Seger’s rendition of “Democracy” offers a poignant reflection on the state of the nation and the enduring pursuit of liberty. The lyrics journey through scenes of unrest, hope, and everyday struggle, highlighting the contradictions and complexities woven into the American experience. Seger paints democracy as an evolving force, arriving through both pain and promise, whether in the aftermath of historical events or in the intimacy of home life. The recurring affirmation—”Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.”—serves as both a declaration and a prayer, underscoring the nation’s ceaseless quest for true freedom and equality. The song’s emotional core is further amplified by vivid imagery and a tone that is as sentimental as it is resilient, inviting listeners to reflect on their own role in shaping the future.
Song Credits
- Songwriter: Leonard Cohen
- Performed by: Bob Seger